1
as in occultism
the power to control natural forces through supernatural means
… an alchemy that changed metals rarer than gold into elements more baneful than lead.—
James Gleick
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2
as in magic
the power to do something impressive in a way that seems mysterious or supernatural
They marveled at the digital alchemy that turns lines of computer code into a beautiful user interface.
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Example Sentences
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Recent Examples of alchemy
In casting his acolytes, Del Toro seeks the alchemy that only human minds and hands can accomplish building tangible worlds.
—Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
In January, the Philosopher’s Stone menu launched, leaning fully into the idea of alchemy.
—Melinda Joe, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026
Not even the raging hearts of the most massive stars are capable of this feat of elemental alchemy.
—Robert Lea, Space.com, 4 Feb. 2026
If Saunders and Shapiro both come short of creating a three-dimensional person, this reminds us that in the best works, the subtle alchemy of summoning succeeds.
—Emma Sarappo, The Atlantic, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alchemy
Carlos Aguilar, Los Angeles Times, 10 Feb. 2026
In January, the Philosopher’s Stone menu launched, leaning fully into the idea of alchemy.
—Melinda Joe, Travel + Leisure, 7 Feb. 2026
Not even the raging hearts of the most massive stars are capable of this feat of elemental alchemy.
—Robert Lea, Space.com, 4 Feb. 2026
If Saunders and Shapiro both come short of creating a three-dimensional person, this reminds us that in the best works, the subtle alchemy of summoning succeeds.
—Emma Sarappo, The Atlantic, 30 Jan. 2026
See All Example Sentences for alchemy
Recent Examples of Synonyms for alchemy
Noun
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The transformation of Tarocchi into a divinatory tool began in the late 18th century, driven by the rise of occultism in France.—
Literary Hub,
Literary Hub,
26 Feb. 2026
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The relationship between the Nazis and the occult wasn’t black or white, but according to historian Eric Kurlander, Nazism and various branches of occultism became noticeably intertwined almost immediately after the founding of the National Socialist German Workers Party in 1919.—
Angelica Frey,
JSTOR Daily,
8 Oct. 2025
Noun
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And adults are happy to buy their favorite bears online, while kids can still experience the magic of building their own bear in store.—
Emma Hinchliffe,
Fortune,
23 Feb. 2026
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For 10-year-old Caleah Boyd, the magic is practical and meaningful.—
Alexa Liacko,
CBS News,
23 Feb. 2026
Noun
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The socks demonstrated borderline sorcery in their moisture-wicking ability (thanks to their three-layer construction) and are never cold, despite their outward thinness (Falke’s Polypropylene blend works wonders here).—
Jonathan Thompson,
Travel + Leisure,
9 Feb. 2026
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Could this actually be a resurrection of the sword-and-sorcery fantasy sub-genre?—
Jeff Spry,
Space.com,
23 Jan. 2026
Noun
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This iteration was notably surreal, what with the goopy-faced woman, cartoonish DIY bomb, and witchcraft unlocking true love’s kiss.—
Bethy Squires,
Vulture,
30 Jan. 2026
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The movie follows Pastor Hélder, who, as his faith wanes, turns to witchcraft and sacrifice to reclaim it.—
Georg Szalai,
HollywoodReporter,
27 Jan. 2026
Noun
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Legendary status was initially bestowed on Dalglish in recognition of his wizardry with a ball at his feet.—
James Pearce,
New York Times,
20 Feb. 2026
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Alcaraz needed to pull out some of his usual wizardry to beat Djokovic.—
Ryan Gaydos,
FOXNews.com,
1 Feb. 2026
Cite this Entry
“Alchemy.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/alchemy. Accessed 3 Mar. 2026.
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